Birthstones Guide Month by Month

Last Updated: February 8, 2018

Birthstones are associated with each month of the year, and each has a special meaning and significance. Birthstone colors include the sparkly red of January’s garnet and the cool blue of December’s topaz. To learn more about the birthstones by month, read on below!

But first, are you curious how birthstones originated? Some believe that birthstones can be traced back to the Bible. In Exodus, Aaron wore a breastplate with 12 gemstones representing the 12 tribes of Israel.

Later, these 12 stones were tied to the 12 zodiac signs, but it wasn’t until 1912 that an official birthstone chart was created by the National Association of Jewelers. It has remained unchanged ever since.

Birthstones by Month

January Birthstone: Garnet

The word garnet originates from the Latin word garnatus, meaning “seed-like.” This is because garnet gemstones are often compared to pomegranate seeds. Garnet is believed to promote strong relationships and help you harness inner strength.

February Birthstone: Amethyst

Amethyst is known as the “Jewel of the Gods.” In the Middle Ages, this gem was often worn by royalty, as the color purple is associated with a regal status. Amethyst is believed to promote positivity, courage and stability.

March Birthstones: Aquamarine and Bloodstone

Aquamarine is the primary March birthstone known for its calming blue-green color. It’s believed to enhance communication and promote clarity. Bloodstone is the secondary March birthstone. It is dark green with red specs, and is associated with enhancing energy and strength.

April Birthstone: Diamond

The April birthstone is diamond, though white sapphire, a look-alike, is also tied to this month. Since diamond is one of the hardest materials on earth, it symbolizes strength and courage. It’s also a symbol for everlasting love.

May Birthstone: Emerald

The word emerald originates from the Greek word smaragdus, which means green stone. Cleopatra was known for adorning herself in this stone. The emerald symbolizes love and abundance.

June Birthstones: Pearl, Alexandrite, Moonstone

Pearl is the primary June birthstone. It represents purity and imagination, though its meaning can change based on the the color of the gem. Alexandrite and moonstone are secondary June birthstones.

July Birthstone: Ruby

Rubies were discovered over 2000 years ago, and are known as the “King of Gemstones.” They are valued for their bright red color, and represent passion, energy and love. They’re also said to have protective powers.

August Birthstones: Peridot and Spinel

Peridot is the primary August birthstone. It is known for its distinctive bright green color, and is believed to bring good luck and help attract wealth. Spinel is the secondary birthstone and is very rare.

September Birthstone: Sapphire

Sapphires are known for their bright blue color. Their color is so vibrant that in 800 BC Persian rulers thought the sky was blue because of the reflection of the stones. They represent royalty and wisdom.

October Birthstones: Tourmaline and Opal

Tourmaline comes in a variety of colors, but pink tourmaline is associated with the October birthstone. It symbolizes humanitarianism and love. Opal is the secondary October birthstone and represents faithfulness and confidence.

November Birthstones: Citrine and Topaz

Citrine is known for its yellow color. It was named after the citron fruit, which is similar to a lemon. Topaz is the secondary November birthstone. It comes in many colors including yellow. Because of this, yellow topaz is sometimes confused with citrine.

December Birthstones: Tanzanite, Zircon, Turquoise

All of December’s birthstones, both primary and secondary, are a shade of blue which is fitting for this cold, winter month. Tanzanite is extremely rare and can only be found in Tanzania. It is said to have calming and soothing properties.

Now that you know about all the birthstones, do you think they’re reflective of you and your loved ones? If you do, you may want to gift them birthstone jewelry with a special note about what their birthstone represents. Even better, personalize the jewelry itself with a special message!